Rare Set of 2 Antique Japanese Esen Amulet Coins Inari Kitsune Fox Deity Tokens

Rare Set of 2 Antique Japanese Esen Amulet Coins - Inari Kitsune Fox Deity Tokens (14g)

This is an exceptional, highly collectible set of two authentic Japanese Esen (絵銭), or pictorial amulet coins, dedicated to the worship of Inari, the Shinto deity of agriculture, foxes, fertility, and business prosperity. These tokens were historically minted from the Edo to Meiji periods for shrine visitors as protective talismans.

Key Features:

• Sacred Kitsune (Fox) Iconography: Both coins beautifully depict pairs of sitting Kitsune foxes—the sacred messengers of the Inari deity. One coin features the foxes guarding a traditional Torii gate, while the other shows them flanking a representation of Japan's oldest official coinage form.

• Wado-Kaichin Motif (Coin 1): The larger coin features a distinct circle at the top inscribed with "和同開珎" (Wado Kaichin), paying homage to Japan's legendary first currency minted in 708 AD, paired with the kanji "水" (Water) at the base to invoke safety from fires.

• Auspicious Kanji (Coin 2): The second coin features a detailed Torii Shinto gate on the obverse and is inscribed on the reverse with the kanji "吉" (Kichi - Good Fortune/Blessing) and "川" (Kawa - River), likely denoting a specific sacred region or shrine lineage.

• Stunning Original Verdigris: Both pieces are cast from an ancient copper/bronze alloy and boast a magnificent, untouched light-green verdigris (緑青) patina nested within deep chocolate-brown surfaces.

Specifications:

Condition:

Excellent Antique Condition. Both coins possess a robust structure with no cracks or edge chips. The pictorial reliefs and kanji characters remain crisp and legible. The natural aged patina is beautifully preserved, verifying their genuine historical pedigree.